Morris Educational Foundation gets top ranking from national institute

Morris Educational Foundation is #1 In the Nation

The Morris Educational Foundation is honored to announce that we have been ranked first in the nation among foundations of our size (annual revenues less than $500,000) by the nation’s only annual study and ranking of K-12 education foundations – Stepping Up: The Nation’s Top K-12 Education Foundations 2017.

“We are thrilled to have received this recognition for the work we do in partnership with the Morris School District. We strive to impact the education of every student, every day, by making each investment meaningful and thoughtful. Our relationships within our community further impact our students, opening doors and partnerships. Community partnerships are the key to strong schools,” -Patty Haralampoudis, Chair of the Morris Educational Foundation

The MEF is also ranked 36th in the nation out of 191 K-12 education foundations in the Industry’s Top-50. Stepping Up, which studies K-12 education foundations more often and more in-depth than anyone in the nation, cites the Morris Educational Foundation’s “per student funds” as the key to its jump in the rankings.

“This year’s top 50 includes something new: a foundation from Division 4 ($500,000 or less). Morris Educational Foundation (New Jersey) ranks 36th up from 51st last year. What Morris appears to lack in revenues, they make up for it in per student funds. Some foundations raise large amounts of money but, when compared to the number of students in their districts, it becomes clear the impact on most students is minimal.” –Caruthers Institute
Stepping Up looks at eight performance categories to determine the rankings: annual revenues, revenues per student, total assets, assets per student, investment income, grant and program expenses, grant and program expenses per student, and volunteers. Foundations also are placed into four divisions based on revenues. To view the study, visit www.caruthers.institute.

“The Morris Educational Foundation’s dedication to enhancing public education in the Morris School District acts as a model throughout the state of New Jersey. As public funding diminishes, education foundation support is invaluable in enhancing the educational experiences of students. The MEF works within their community to provide additional support to the students they serve.” -Megan Dzwonkowski, Executive Director of the New Jersey Education Foundation Partnership

Celebrating its 25th year, the Morris Educational Foundation has provided over $3 million dollars in resources impacting the education of Morris School District students.

“This year the MEF marks its 25th year serving the Morris School District and its students. We could not be more proud of what we have been able to accomplish during this time. We are able to touch every student while we continue to work towards closing the opportunity gap for our socio-economically diverse population. The number one ranking is really a reflection of the exceptional schools, leadership and community we are able to serve.”-Debbie Sontupe, Executive Director of the Morris Educational Foundation